Asia: Myanmar and Northeastern Asia and southward to Central China. This species proved successful in the aquarium fish trade and has also been introduced to other countries (Ref. 1739). At least one country reports adverse ecological impact after introduction. Countries | FAO areas | Ecosystems | Occurrences | Introductions
Short description
Dorsal view shows the male with larger pectoral fins and the female with fuller abdomen (Ref. 44091). Body is mottled with darker greenish-gray to dark brown markings, against a yellow-brown to brown color; conspicuous adipose crests along the ventral and dorsal mid-lines of the caudal peduncle; 10 barbels; suborbital spine hidden in the skin (Ref. 27732).
Occurs in rivers, lakes and ponds. Also in swamps and rice fields (Ref. 27732, 44894). Prefers still or gently flowing water (Ref. 44894), also the muddy bottoms, where they hide in the muck and leaf litter with only their heads sticking out; prefers muddy bottoms of streams and ponds; in Hawaii, can also be found under mats of honohono (Commelina diffusa and California grass (Brachiara nuatica); feeds on worms, small crustaceans, insects, insect larvae, and other small aquatic organisms (Ref. 44091). Benthic (Ref. 58302). Tolerates temperatures between 2 and 30C, and can breathe air to supplement respiratory requirements in oxygen-depleted waters. Commonly used by anglers as live bait, so escapes may also have contributed to their spread (Ref. 44894).
